MADRID – Kylian Mbappé has been included in Real Madrid’s travelling squad for Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 second leg against Manchester City, offering a significant boost to Los Blancos as they defend a 3-0 aggregate lead. The French superstar has been sidelined since February 21 with a knee injury, but participated in a team training session on Sunday, signaling his recovery.
The news comes as a welcome development for Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa, though his availability for the starting XI remains uncertain. Arbeloa indicated on Monday that Mbappé would be available for selection, but cautioned against expecting a full 90-minute performance. “Mbappé is available, so you’ll see him tomorrow,” Arbeloa told reporters. The coach is likely to manage the forward’s minutes to avoid aggravating the injury, potentially utilizing him as a substitute, especially with a crucial La Liga derby against Atlético Madrid looming this weekend.
Mbappé’s absence coincided with a period where he had been playing through discomfort in his left knee since early December. Despite the issue, he continued to discover the back of the net consistently before being forced to rest. There were concerns within the club about potentially worsening the injury with a premature return, according to sources briefed on the situation.
While Mbappé’s return is a positive sign, Real Madrid will be without Jude Bellingham for the match against Manchester City. Bellingham has been absent with a hamstring injury since February 1, and Arbeloa confirmed he will not be involved on Tuesday. “Bellingham wanted to come; he’ll do part of the training session but won’t be there tomorrow,” Arbeloa stated. Bellingham, despite his injury, is already considered a leader within the squad.
Real Madrid enters the second leg at the Etihad Stadium with a commanding advantage, having secured a 3-0 victory in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu thanks to a hat-trick from Federico Valverde. Still, Manchester City will be eager to overturn the deficit on home turf, especially after a 1-1 draw against West Ham United in their most recent Premier League fixture. That result has left City nine points behind league leaders Arsenal, with Arsenal having played one more game.
The inclusion of Mbappé adds another dimension to Real Madrid’s attack, providing Arbeloa with a potent option off the bench. The forward’s pace and finishing ability could prove crucial in breaking down Manchester City’s defense, particularly if the game remains tight. However, the focus will be on managing his workload and ensuring he doesn’t suffer a setback.
Left-back Álvaro Carreras has similarly been included in the squad, despite an injury to his right calf. However, sources indicate he is unlikely to start, with Sunday’s match against Atlético Madrid considered a more realistic target for his return to full fitness.
This Champions League tie represents a significant challenge for both clubs. Manchester City, aiming to retain their title, face a daunting task against a Real Madrid side bolstered by the potential return of one of the world’s most dangerous attackers. The tactical battle between Pep Guardiola and Álvaro Arbeloa will be closely watched, as both managers seek to exploit their opponents’ weaknesses and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
For Real Madrid, the focus extends beyond this tie. They are also competing on multiple fronts in La Liga and the Copa del Rey, making squad management and player fitness paramount. Mbappé’s successful reintegration into the team will be vital as they navigate a demanding schedule.
The match at the Etihad Stadium is scheduled for Tuesday, March 17th. Kick-off is at 8:00 PM local time (7:00 PM GMT/3:00 PM EST). Fans can expect a thrilling encounter as two of Europe’s elite clubs battle for a place in the next round of the Champions League.
Next up for Real Madrid is their La Liga derby against Atlético Madrid on March 22nd, a match where Mbappé may be in line for a more substantial role if he continues to progress positively.
